Beeswax – White Granules

Beeswax

Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees and composed primarily of esters, fatty acids, and long-chain alcohols. It is harvested from honeycomb structures and refined for cosmetic use through filtration and purification to remove debris and impurities while preserving its functional wax properties. Beeswax is not chemically modified and does not undergo ethoxylation, sulfation, or petrochemical processing, supporting its use in traditional, natural, and clean-leaning cosmetic formulations.

From a formulation standpoint, Beeswax functions as a structuring agent, consistency modifier, and barrier-supporting ingredient. It increases firmness, improves product integrity, and helps bind oil phases in anhydrous and low-water systems. In emulsions, Beeswax can contribute to viscosity and stability when used alongside emulsifiers, though it does not function as a primary emulsifier on its own. Its performance is influenced by concentration, oil selection, and overall system design.

In finished products, Beeswax contributes a characteristic rich, protective skin feel with moderate drag and a soft, occlusive finish. Lower usage levels provide subtle body and structure, while higher levels create firm, durable textures suitable for sticks, balms, and salves. Beeswax is commonly used in lip products, body balms, ointments, creams, and traditional skincare preparations where barrier support and longevity are desired.

From a clean standards and safety perspective, Beeswax has a long history of cosmetic and topical use and is widely accepted across global regulatory frameworks. It is biodegradable, generally well tolerated, and suitable for both leave-on and rinse-off applications. As an animal-derived ingredient, Beeswax is not considered vegan, which may influence formulation positioning depending on brand standards.

Ingredient Identification

INCI Name: Cera Alba (Beeswax)
CAS Number: 8012-89-3

Physical & Technical Properties

Appearance: Yellow to off-white solid wax
Odor: Mild, characteristic honey-like scent
Melting Point: Approximately 61–65 °C
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and oil phases
Functional Role: Structuring agent, consistency modifier, barrier support

Typical Usage Levels (Skincare & Cosmetic Applications)

Lip Balms and Salves: 5–25%
Body Balms and Ointments: 3–20%
Creams and Emulsions: 1–5%
Sticks and Solid Formats: 10–30%

Actual usage levels may vary depending on desired firmness, oil-phase composition, and combination with other waxes or butters.

DIY Education and Formulation Guidance

For DIY formulators, Beeswax is valued for its simplicity and reliability in anhydrous formulations. It should be fully melted into the oil phase and mixed thoroughly to ensure uniform texture. Beeswax increases firmness quickly, so small percentage adjustments can significantly impact final product hardness.

In emulsions, Beeswax is best used as a secondary structuring component alongside a true emulsifier. Excessive use without sufficient emulsification may result in instability or grainy texture. Combining Beeswax with softer waxes or butters can improve spreadability and reduce drag.

Formulation Compatibility & Common Combinations

Beeswax is commonly combined with vegetable oils, esters, and butters such as shea, cocoa, or mango butter to balance firmness and glide. It works well with other natural waxes such as candelilla or rice bran wax to fine-tune hardness. In emulsions, it is typically paired with emulsifying wax systems or other emulsifiers to support stability.

Shelf Life, Storage, and Packaging

Shelf Life: Typically 24–36 months when stored properly
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry environment away from direct heat
Packaging Recommendations: Airtight containers, lined paper bags, or sealed pails
Handling Notes: Protect from moisture and excessive heat to prevent oxidation or deformation

Regulatory & Safety Notes

Regulatory Status: Approved for cosmetic use globally, including the United States and European Union, with no specific concentration limits beyond Good Manufacturing Practices
California Proposition 65: Not listed
EWG Context: Generally categorized as low hazard based on available data
Irritation and Sensitization: Not classified as irritating or sensitizing for topical cosmetic use
Clean Beauty Compatibility: Natural and biodegradable; not vegan due to animal origin